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Atlantic Memorial Park Receives Support for Chapel Point Battery

by pmnationtalk onNovember 30, 2018144 Views

Chapel Point Battery to be restored into a major military tourism attraction to commemorate Sydney Harbour war efforts

November 30, 2018 – Sydney, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Facilitating meaningful and reflective opportunities to remember Canada’s historical war contributions will attract new visitors, sustain growth in Atlantic Canada’s tourism sector and strengthen the region’s economy. That is why the Atlantic Memorial Park (AMP) Society and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) are working to diversify Cape Breton’s year-round tourism offerings through the establishment of the Atlantic Memorial Park.

This project will provide historical learning opportunities for visitors to Atlantic Canada and strengthen bonds with Canadian veterans through improved access to the Chapel Point Battery site, the revitalization of the command post and the installation of directional and informative signage.

Today, the Honourable Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria, announced Government of Canada support for the restoration of the Chapel Point Battery, where hundreds of ships once assembled during the Second World War, to commemorate the role it played in defending Sydney Harbour during three separate military conflicts.

MP Eyking made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and of the Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs.

This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which supports strategic investments in line with Canada’s Tourism Visionto make Canada a top-ten global tourism destination by 2025.

Quotes

“Commemorative historic sites reflect the rich and diverse heritage of our nation and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our history. Reinforcing the value of our historic sites and providing interactive learning opportunities strengthens our tourism sector, attracts new visitors, grows businesses and creates new jobs.”

– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The Chapel Point Battery restoration project is important not only for the north side, but for Cape Breton. I’m proud of the work the Atlantic Memorial group is doing as this project will not only be a great opportunity to preserve and share our history with visitors, but also as a tribute to those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. I’m proud that our federal government has agreed to fund this worthwhile project.”

– The Honourable Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria

“Restoration of this historically significant site will offer families, visitors and Nova Scotians a space for remembrance, education and recreation. Through the Culture Action Plan, we are making important investments that help to build strong and healthy communities, bring people and communities together and promote, preserve and celebrate our history and heritage.”

– The Honourable Derek Mombourquette, Minister of Energy and Mines and Member of the Legislative Assembly for Sydney-Whitney Pier on behalf of Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister, Honourable Leo Glavine

“In recognizing the contributions of Mi’kmaq service members in defending Canada’s freedom, we are proud to support the Atlantic Memorial Park project. The history of our people will be remembered and honoured for future generations in Cape Breton, and visitors to our island.”

– Chief Terrance Paul, Membertou First Nation

“Honouring the rich military history of the area, the restoration of the Chapel Point Battery is the important first step in the development of the Atlantic Memorial Park. The CBRM looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the AMP Society, with the valued support from community members, sponsors of the project, and the other levels of government, in the ongoing efforts to move forward with this commemorative project.”

– Cecil Clarke, Mayor, Cape Breton Regional Municipality

“Our mission is to create a seaside journey of remembrance that brings Canada’s military history home. The Atlantic Memorial Park will be an iconic national commemorative site and provide significant economic benefits for Cape Breton. It will result in millions of dollars in additional tourism revenue as well as jobs and business opportunities for the region.”

– Brian Ferguson, Planning Director, AMP Society

Quick facts

The restoration of the Chapel Point Battery will launch the development of the Atlantic Memorial Park, which is envisioned to include features such as an arch of remembrance, a visitor education centre, a replica Vimy Ridge battlefield, a replica Indigenous encampment and a family park.

Sydney Harbour was recognized as the second busiest harbour in terms of Canadian military contributions during the Second World War.

The command post at Chapel Point Battery played a vital role in Canada’s naval efforts during the Second World War with the escort of hundreds of allied supply convoys that gathered in Halifax and Sydney. It is one of seven fortifications in the Sydney area.